Security Camera Permit Requirements in Aurora, Illinois

Quick Answer: Security camera installations in Aurora, Illinois generally do not require permits for standalone low-voltage systems. However, electrical permits may be needed for systems requiring new circuits. Contractors must hold Illinois IDFPR licensing. Aurora spans four counties (Kane, DuPage, Will, and Kendall), so always verify the specific jurisdiction.

When Is a Security Camera Permit Required?

Aurora requires permits for security camera work in these situations:

• Installation of new electrical circuits (120V+) for camera equipment
• Exterior mounting requiring structural modifications
• Pole or mast installations
• Systems integrated with monitored alarm systems (registration may apply)
• Commercial installations as part of new construction permits

Typically Exempt Work

Most standalone security camera installations are exempt:

• Low-voltage camera systems (under 50 volts)
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera installations
• Wireless camera systems
• Surface-mounted cameras without structural modifications
• Like-for-like camera replacements

Illinois Contractor Licensing Requirements

Illinois requires licensing for certain low-voltage work:

Illinois State Licensing

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requires:

• Limited Energy Electrician License - For work on systems under 50 volts
• Electrical Contractor License - For line voltage work

Aurora-Specific Requirements

The City of Aurora Building Division requires:

• Contractor registration with the city
• Compliance with Aurora Municipal Code
• Valid Illinois state licensing

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Verify Permit Requirements

Contact Aurora Building Division to confirm if permits are needed based on project scope.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation (If Required)

For projects requiring permits:

• Permit application form
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Electrical plans if new circuits needed
• Illinois contractor license documentation

Step 3: Submit Application

Aurora accepts permit applications at the Building Division office or through their online portal.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

If permits are issued, schedule inspections as required.

Permit Fees and Timeline

Service	Fee	Timeline
Low-Voltage Only (typically exempt)	No permit required	N/A
Electrical Permit	$50 - $150	3-7 business days
Commercial Permit	$100 - $250	5-10 business days
Re-inspection Fee	$50+	Per occurrence

Fees subject to change. Verify current fees with the Building Division.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Aurora typically include:

• Doorbell cameras and video doorbells
• Exterior perimeter cameras
• Indoor monitoring cameras
• NVR/DVR recording systems
• Cloud-connected systems

Most residential installations are low-voltage and exempt from permits.

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial CCTV installations have additional considerations:

• Building owner/manager approval
• May be part of overall construction permits
• Integration with access control and alarms
• Higher camera counts requiring proper infrastructure
• Industry-specific compliance requirements

Privacy and Legal Considerations

Illinois has strict privacy laws regarding surveillance:

• Illinois Eavesdropping Act: Illinois is a two-party consent state for audio recording
• BIPA: Facial recognition features require explicit consent and disclosures
• Workplace cameras: Must notify employees of surveillance
• Restricted areas: Never install in bathrooms, changing areas, or private spaces

Important: BIPA violations can result in significant penalties. Consult legal counsel if using facial recognition.

Aurora Multi-County Jurisdiction

Aurora spans four counties, which can affect certain requirements:

• Kane County: Primary county (majority of Aurora)
• DuPage County: Eastern portions
• Will County: Southern portions
• Kendall County: Western portions

For city permits, Aurora Building Division handles all areas within city limits regardless of county.

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Illinois licensing: Verify your IDFPR Limited Energy Electrician license is current
• Two-party consent: Disable audio recording unless you have proper consent
• BIPA compliance: If cameras have facial recognition, ensure full compliance
• Aurora Building Division: Generally more accessible than larger cities - good for quick questions
• Multi-county awareness: While city permits are centralized, be aware of county jurisdiction for unincorporated areas nearby
• Weather considerations: Specify cameras rated for Midwest weather extremes

Contact Information

City of Aurora Building Division
44 East Downer Place
Aurora, IL 60505
Phone: (630) 256-3080
Aurora Building Division

Illinois IDFPR (Licensing)
320 West Washington Street
Springfield, IL 62786
Phone: (888) 473-4858
IDFPR Website

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Related Resources

• Chicago, Illinois Security Camera Permits
• Aurora, Illinois Fire Alarm Permits
• All Illinois Permit Guides